Launched in 2012 as a youth-oriented project of former Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr., FYLPro aims to tap outstanding young Filipino-Americans who possess a sincere desire to be engaged in their respective communities and be a part of the Philippines’ growth story. The annual immersion program in the Philippines will afford them the opportunity to meet and dialogue with the highest officials and policymakers of the country, leaders of industry, legislators, media, artists and cultural experts, entrepreneurs (both traditional and social), as well as innovators in different fields.

Among the criteria used to evaluate the applications were scholastic achievements and other accolades, leadership skills, accomplishments, active involvement in school, civic, political, business and other organizations as well as their vision, innovativeness and commitment to making a difference in the Philippines, within the Filipino-American community, and the FYLPro as an organization composed of and run by its 50 alumni members.

Tyler, who turns thirty (30) this year, is the Executive Director of the Hawaii Construction Alliance, an organization that represents the 15,000 members of Hawaii’s carpenters, laborers, cement masons, bricklayers and operating engineers unions. He also chairs the Neighborhood Commission, which oversees the City and County of Honolulu’s neighborhood board system. In 2015, he was recognized as one of Pacific Business News’ “40 Under Forty” for his work in both the business and advocacy community. He is a graduate of Punahou School and Yale University.

Tyler, a descendant of a sakada or the early plantation workers in Hawaii, now joins the roster of past FYLPro delegates from the State, namely: Ms. Kit Zulueta, Maui (2012); Mr. Randy Cortez, Oahu (2013); Atty. Michael Dahilig, Kauai (2014); Representative Ty Cullen, Oahu (2015); and Mr. Brandon dela Cruz and Ms. Elizabeth Obod Frilles, both from Oahu (2016). END.